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Abstract

Maximal aerobic and anaerobic power are crucial performance determinants in most sports disciplines. Numerous studies have published power data from elite athletes over the years, particularly in runners, cyclists, rowers and cross-country skiers. In this invited review, we define the current “world records” in human upper limits of aerobic and anaerobic power. Currently, V̇O2max values of ~7.5 and 7.0 L·min-1 in male cross-country (XC) skiers and rowers, respectively, and/or ~90 ml·kg-1·min-1 in XC skiers, cyclists and runners can be described as upper human limits for aerobic power. Corresponding values for women are slightly below 5.0 L.min-1 in rowers and XC skiers and ~80 ml·kg·min-1 obtained in XC skiers and runners. Extremely powerful male athletes may reach ~85 W·kg-1 in countermovement jump (CMJ) (peak vertical power) and ~36 W·kg-1 in sprint running (peak horizontal power), cycling (instantaneous power during force-velocity testing from a standing position) and rowing (instantaneous power). Similarly, their female counterparts may reach ~70 W·kg-1 in CMJ and ~30 W·kg-1 in sprint running, cycling and rowing. The presented values can serve as reference values for practitioners and scientists working with elite athletes. However, several methodological considerations should be taken into account when interpreting the results. For example, calibrated apparatus and strict procedures are required to ensure high measurement validity and reliability, and the sampling rate for anaerobic power assessments must be strictly predetermined and carefully measured. Doping is also a potential confounding factor when interpreting the human upper limits of aerobic and anaerobic power.